Lauren VanAllen of Clearwater High School Named South Central District Finalist for the Kansas Golden Owl Award®
CLEARWATER, Kan. – The Kansas FFA, in partnership with Nationwide, proudly recognizes Lauren VanAllen, an agricultural educator at Clearwater High School, as the South Central District finalist for the 2025 Golden Owl Award.
VanAllen was selected through nominations submitted from October 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, recognizing her outstanding contributions to agricultural education and student development.
VanAllen received an individualized plaque and a $500 check as a district finalist. She now advances to the final selection stage, where one educator will be named Kansas Ag Educator of the Year, receiving an additional $3,000 Nationwide-funded check and the prestigious Golden Owl Award trophy.
“Lauren VanAllen’s enthusiasm and dedication to agricultural education inspire students to develop both technical skills and leadership qualities,” said Beth Gaines, Executive Director of the Kansas FFA Foundation. “Her impact extends beyond the classroom, shaping students into future leaders of the agriculture industry.”
Established by Nationwide, the Golden Owl Award honors the hard work of agricultural educators and provides additional resources to enhance their programs. This year, the award program recognizes exceptional ag educators in 13 states, including Kansas.
“As the demand for agricultural education grows, we are proud to recognize and support these incredible teachers,” said Brad Liggett, President of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “Their unwavering commitment to students and agriculture is inspiring, and we are grateful for their contributions to the industry.”
In addition to recognizing finalists, Nationwide is donating $5,000 to Kansas FFA to further support the professional and personal development of students, educators, and advisors.
The Kansas Ag Educator of the Year will be announced at the 97th Kansas FFA Convention at Kansas State University from May 27-30, 2025.
For more information about the Kansas FFA, visit www.ksffa.org or contact Beth Gaines at [email protected].
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For more information, visit www.nationwide.com.